Criticism of Biden and rumors that he might be a hindrance to the president's reelection increased after Biden last week told a crowd in Virginia that Republicans have pledged to “unchain” Wall Street and “put y'all back in chains." The remark was criticized as race-baiting.

Obama has denied that Biden will be replaced on the presidential ticket.

On Aug. 23, 2008, then-Sen. Obama (Ill.) announced then-Sen. Biden (Del.) as his vice presidential pick. Obama's campaign announced his choice of running mate via text and email messages to supporters and then at a rally in Springfield, Ill.